Garmin Brings Solar Charging to More Affordable GPS Models

Provided photos.

Following much anticipation and early leaks, new Garmin Edge Solar GPS units are available starting today. The latest units bring solar charging, first introduced in the high-end Edge 1040, to lower price points starting at $449.99. There are a few feature enhancements as well, mostly focused on training and fitness.

Garmin Edge 540 Solar and 840 Solar

Both the Garmin Edge 540 and 840 Solar GPS units utilize a 2.6″ display that doubles as a solar panel to extend battery life. With the solar boost Garmin says riders can get up to 32 hours of “demanding” use on a single charge, or up to 60 hours in battery saver mode. The non-Solar Edge 540 and 840 units still get an impressive 26 to 42 hours using battery power alone.

Comparing the 540 and 840 Edge units, the 840 adds touch screen capabilities which promises to make panning and zooming maps easier. All of the new units utilize multi-band GNSS technology for additional accuracy, even in tricky environments.

Garmin says the new Edge 540 and 840 units offer improved mapping for both roads and trails, and searchable points of interest. Riders will also be stoked for the ability to pause re-route guidance when purposely riding off course, say to take a shortcut or explore a new line. Crash reporting is said to have been improved as well.

Rounding out the updated feature set, there are a number of training-specific features like real-time stamina insights for help with pacing, adaptive coaching tailored to your fitness level, and detailed information about upcoming climbs.

US pricing is as follows, with retail availability beginning today.